Identity theft is becoming a big problem. With all the access to information I will be doing an extensive series answering questions and posting articles on identity theft. This is the first in the series. Enjoy, and hopefully you will learn how not to be a victem. Also, keep in mind that you can get your free credit report by clicking on one of the links on the right hand side of this blog page. thanks very much.
Identity Theft Prevention
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
Explains the steps you can take to protect yourself from identity theft.
Identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft can cost you time and money. It can destroy your credit and
ruin your good name.
Deter identity thieves by safeguarding your information.
? Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.
? Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.
? Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you
know who you are dealing with.
? Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails;
instead, type in a web address you know. Use firewalls,
anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect
your home computer; keep them up-to-date.
Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.
? Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date,
your mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits
of your Social Security number.
? Keep your personal information in a secure place
at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.
Defend against ID theft as soon as you suspect it.
? Place a “Fraud Alert” on your credit reports, and review the reports carefully. The alert tells creditors
to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts. The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an initial 90-day fraud alert; a call to one company is sufficient:
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
-FTC.gov
ee credit scores by clicking on one of the links in this blog.